Repertoire: Interesting Overtures (9) Enescu

Enescu's Concert Overture, Op. 32 is technically called "'Concert Overture on Themes of Popular Romanian Character," but that doesn't begin to describe what really goes on in its nine eventful minutes. For that, you'll have to listen to the samples (courtesy of Ondine Recordings) and then spend some time with the whole thing. Trust me, it's a trip.

[@HassoBenSoba]

Fascinating how Enescu's famous 1st Rhapsody is regarded as an "easy listening" bon-bon, when in fact it's a truly bizarre and uniquely individual work, despite it's charming opening theme(s). The guy was totally one-of-a-kind...AND happened to produce one of the 20th-century's indisputable operatic masterpieces. I own the Arte Nova, Bucharest/Mandeal box which contains this fascinating overture, but the sound is cramped, and the playing is so-so. Clearly, the Ondine version is what this music needs to be really understood and appreciated. Thanks for doing it. LR

[@saltyfellow]

Such a great composer! Thanks for bringing me through the ship of discovery!!!

[@davidhobbs1908]

This is fabulous music. Thank you, David!

[@chrislittle7665]

Thank you for your multiple series exploring tough symphonists, interesting overtures, and more. It is exciting to see and hear the byways of the recorded repertoire get some love. Would you consider a suggestion in the "scary folk music" category? Josip Slavenski's "Balkanophonia." It is a suite, not an overture, alas, but has some of the same kind of "out there" spin on folk influences. Many thanks - keep up the crusade, schlep, and wonderful musical chats!

[@DavesClassicalGuide]

Thanks. I'll consider anything I can get permission to use!

[@folanpaul]

Hi David, another suggestion for this series: Cesar Cui's Overture to The Mandarin's Son, which is a delightful work.

[@DavesClassicalGuide]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@Wolfcrag85]

It's almost like crossing some decades in one piece.

[@Bucky58]

If it's not prying do you have a sound system of your own that you review these by or do you have to use headphones because of your neighbors? As an audiophile I'm curious about your cd player, speakers, etc. Look forward to your videos. You always seem to have interesting music topics. Thanks

[@DavesClassicalGuide]

Sorry, I don't discuss sound systems. Many have asked already, and I'm not going there!

[@Bucky58]

@@DavesClassicalGuide I totally understand. Still enjoy your videos, thanks.

[@valtersdolacis2571]

At last- review on Enescu Overture! Thank you!

[@DavesClassicalGuide]

Sure thing! Now watch the video!

[@Plantagenet1956]

I must say, I do rather like what Hannu. Lintu is doing in Finland. This disc looks most interesting.

[@jacquesracine9571]

Was that French?

[@DavesClassicalGuide]

You tell me.

[@cliffordbaker4930]

Enescu was a pupil of Gustave Faure

[@kylejohnson8877]

Fascinating stuff! Enescu really had a thing for huge, gnarly, awkward (in a good way!), and complex endings - a sure trademark of his style.